Can dogs get a common cold from humans?

Updated 13/06/2024

The common cold is pretty, well, common! Although uncomfortable and bothersome for most of us, these highly contagious symptoms are so easily passed on it’s a daily part of life. But what about our pup pals? Can dogs get a common cold from humans?

We’ll look to see whether dogs can get colds, if humans can pass colds and flu onto them, and what you can do to prevent pups from picking up poorly problems. Tissues at the ready and stay hydrated, let’s explore more about the common cold in dogs.

Do dogs get colds?

Yes! Well, sort of. Pups can become infected with different viruses (like humans) which will cause things like a runny nose, watery eyes, and sneezing. The most common of these diseases include canine parainfluenza virus, bordetella, and canine distemper.

However, these signs can be a sign of another infectious respiratory disease which could be more serious. Kennel cough is a commonly spread illness that is passed on from dog to dog, hence the name. This upper respiratory infection can become serious if left untreated, so always have your canine checked if they show signs of illness.

Another cause of respiratory symptoms in dogs can be parasites like lungworm which can have serious consequences. Again, be sure to take them to the vet if you notice any changes - they’ll be able to do a full physical exam to see if there’s anything more than just a sniffle snuffle.

Can dogs catch human colds?

Short answer: No. While our precious pooches can pick up a virus or bacteria that causes flu or cold-like symptoms, we humans can’t pass on our sniffles to our snuffles. The types of viruses we catch which cause a runny nose, cough, and a potential day off work, aren’t able to live inside a doggo’s body. And vice versa - pups can’t give their snotty surprises to humans either.

Cold symptoms in dogs

Unsurprisingly, cold symptoms in dogs are very similar to human symptoms. According to PetMD, these include:

• Runny nose
• A rough or honking cough
• Frothy mucus from the mouth
• Congestion
• Conjunctivitis
• Watery eyes
• Sneezing
• Nasal discharge
• Loss of appetite
• Shallow or wet breathing
• Lethargy
• Fever

Remember, you should always have your canine checked out by their vet if they ever appear unwell. While these cold symptoms in dogs may simply just be a mild infection such as kennel cough which will pass, these could also be symptoms of something more sinister. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Treatment and dog cold medicine

It’ll depend on what’s causing your dog's cold symptoms. If it’s a nasty infection or parasite like lungworm, your vet will need to administer medicine and possibly write them a prescription. Other infections like kennel cough may also need immediate treatment and care, although often no treatment is needed for mild cases of kennel cough.

You should refrain from giving your dog any home remedies that you might use yourself for a cold or flu, as they are not always safe for dogs and may be toxic.

But, for poorly pups with a flu or cold virus, although the runny nose and watery eyes aren’t nice for them (or you) to deal with, they’re typically mild illnesses. Like a human, after a few days, they should be back to themselves. Make sure they see their vet either during or after their illness. If they start to deteriorate, you must take them to an emergency vet immediately.

Preventing a canine common cold

Sadly, there’s currently no vaccination to protect pups from all the different viruses that cause cold symptoms in dogs. But, we can vaccinate against some of the pathogens that cause kennel cough, and there is also a vaccine for canine parainfluenza. Canine distemper is rare, as it’s vaccinated against in your dog’s core annual vaccinations. As a canine carer, the best thing you can do is make sure they’re kept warm, comfortable, and well-hydrated. If they’re lethargic, don’t force them to go on walks, it’s much better to let them rest.

Respiratory parasites can easily be prevented by using a regular parasite prevention treatment. Always speak to your vet about the most suitable product for your pet to ensure they’re fully protected.

Just as you would prevent contact with an infected person, make sure your sneezy snuffle is kept away from other pups until their symptoms are resolved to stop the spread of the illness. Disinfect their toys and bedding to kill off the virus. 

Meet our veterinary expert, Holly

This article has been checked by veterinarian Holly Anne Hills BVM BVS BVMedSci. After graduating from the University of Nottingham, Holly spent two years working as a farm animal vet. She then spent some time traveling and volunteering in India, working at neutering clinics and with injured street dogs. Holly now works in small animal practice, and balances this with writing, volunteering with the comms team at Vet Sustain, and she is also a marine mammal medic!

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